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Column: Memory of an old guy

I have always looked at the memory as a storage process in the brain. It’s like a library where a librarian looks up information on certain topics we request.

When I was young, my brain librarian was quick to index and locate memory resources for me. I even vision her on roller blades, moving quickly in between the long library shelves of the long-term memory brain section. Now I think my librarian has definitely slowed down; taking afternoon power naps and now slowly walking with a walker or cane.

Also part of this memory slow down, my librarian can’t always obtain a source or sends me the wrong information. My wife on the other hand has a librarian that works out daily; in great physical shape; as she seems to quickly recall everything. Especially under the index heading: “Things I Said I Would Do.”

I decided to find out actually why my memory has baffle/befuddled my “long term memory” process. In researching this, I found data that reassured me I wasn’t totally losing it.

First, we are easily bombarded today with facts/data information from electronic sources. Then we attempt storing all this in our brain’s library. Supposedly we can only store about 20 to 30 seconds worth at one time. To even do that, you must be paying attention or be at least motivated to obtain these things in your memory.

There - proof that my wife needs to use better motivation tactics and quickly tell me things in increments of 20 to 30 seconds. No wonder I don’t remember all the things she said.

I can’t wait to explain this new memory knowledge and rewards system with her…suggesting we use a stopwatch to track her time. The other part is motivation to listen. Just think of all the creative ideas that might motivate guys like me to remember things; like…beer… afternoon naps…fishing trip with the guys… football game tickets and so on.

As a retired classroom teacher, I couldn’t help thinking how this might improve education. Schools need to be aware of this short memory time frame creating better retaining of knowledge. Many schools have 50 minutes daily classes to teach. Following with more classes of sitting again with 50 minutes of listening on a totally new subject. Teachers should have stopwatches to record a shorter instructional time.

With all the recent importance put on empowering/exercising the brain and fear of Alzheimer’s, why not have a device measuring brainpower?

In researching brain memory, I discovered the memory/learning power of the brain lies in an area called “hippocampus,” where new neurons are generated.

If you Google “hippocampus” you will learn that more new neurons in this part of the brain results in better memory/learning. Exercises/diet are some ways adults can create new neurons. So like other body gadgets, we need one that measures brainpower.

I propose we name this device the “Hippo” wristband…keeping track of new neurons in the brain.

OK, …I know, percentages are against me developing this, so in the meantime…I still have my wife, serving as my brain memory neuron gauge.

Wes Adamson is a resident of Wyoming. His book: “Imagination By Moonlight: Living life boldly and successful,” is available on Amazon. Proceeds from books sold are dedicated to programs for homeless youth.